The collection documents through correspondence, diaries, and financial records, the activity of four people over three generations. These papers span the years 1838 to 1917, with most of the material falling in the periods of 1838-1845 and 1881-1917. The 1845-1881 gap is due to the absence of a generation of records.

The records of Elijah M. Lansing (1838-1845) relate to the 6th Regiment, 5th Brigade of the Michigan Militia (Washtenaw Guards). The incoming letters include a request to join the guards, a letter concerning the Officer's Rendezvous, and an invitation to the Washtenaw Guards 3rd Annual Ball. The constitution, muster rolls, and company orders recount the militia's purpose, duties, and members.

Frank M. Lansing's personal papers (1886-1916) are composed mostly of diaries and notebooks. The diaries, though not often complete for each year, briefly relate his daily business and social activities. His notebook of 1901 includes some biographical data, and the autograph book provides picture stamps of himself as well as his Eastman College of Business classmates. Among his business records (1886-1917) are found ledgers from the Howell Steam Laundry and the Lansing Insurance Agency which provide a detailed record of cash received, cash paid out, policy holders and payments, payments for laborers, and some personal expenses. Also, on the envelope containing the Eastman College of Business banknotes is a listing of several addresses for his dry goods business (1886).

The papers of Rosadel Taft Lansing (1883-1890s) consist of memorabilia.

The personal papers of Daniel Owen Taft (1887-1901) contain correspondence to and from family, friends, and two eviction notices to tenants living on some of his property. His farm records (1881-1911) include ledgers which list produce transactions, laborer's hours and wages, price listings of crops, and Taft's personal expenses. Also found in the back of the 1881-1895 ledger is genealogical information on Taft's family. The manuscript maps of the three townships surrounding his home give the location of his neighbors' property and his land holdings.